This Saturday’s UFC Atlantic City bout at Boardwalk Hall is set to ignite the octagon as Manon Fiorot, a skilled karate specialist, squares off against jiu-jitsu black belt Erin Blanchfield.
As the anticipation builds, Fiorot’s strategic prowess and formidable fighting style come into focus, echoing the words of the legendary Bruce Lee:
“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”
Fiorot’s mastery of the 1-2-3 combination is a testament to her dedication, showcased vividly in her bout against Bantamweight contender Mayra Bueno Silva.
While some may perceive her game as limited, her relentless pursuit of excellence and physical prowess give her a genuine shot at championship glory.
Let’s enter deeper into Fiorot’s arsenal:
Striking:
With a foundation in Karate, Muay Thai, and kickboxing, Fiorot’s striking game is nothing short of impressive. Operating as a Southpaw, her athleticism sets her apart, enabling her to deliver lightning-fast strikes with precision.
While her boxing form may need refinement, Fiorot compensates with a potent jab and an effective hook, often catching opponents off guard.
Her go-to combo, the 1-2-3, may seem predictable, but Fiorot’s ability to vary her targets keeps adversaries guessing. Coupled with her devastating side kick and powerful round kicks, she inflicts significant damage while maintaining control of the octagon.
Wrestling:
In wrestling exchanges, Fiorot’s athleticism reigns supreme. Preferring upper body positions and clinch work, she relies on her strength and size to overpower opponents.
With a formidable 91% takedown defense, she demonstrates her prowess in both offensive and defensive wrestling.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:
Despite her dominance in striking and wrestling, Fiorot’s ground game remains relatively untested in the UFC.
Yet to attempt or defend a submission, her proficiency in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains a wildcard in her arsenal.
Finally, at 34 years old, Fiorot understands the urgency of her quest for UFC gold. With a string of victories under her belt, she stands on the precipice of a title shot.
As she steps into the octagon this Saturday, Fiorot’s journey from karate prodigy to UFC contender epitomizes the pursuit of greatness in mixed martial arts.